2027 Elections: Building a Strong PDP Comes Before Any Presidential Ambition — Governor Makinde
Rewritten Story: WRITTEN BY OKAFOR JOSEPH OCTOBER 14,2025
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has stated that strengthening the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) must take priority over any personal presidential ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Monday in Ibadan, Makinde reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Oyo State hosts one of the best-organised PDP national conventions in the party’s history. The governor serves as the Chairman of the Transportation Sub-Committee for the upcoming elective convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025.
Makinde cautioned party members against actions that could undermine the convention, describing such efforts as futile and self-destructive.
“The PDP National Convention train has already left the station,” Makinde said. “Anyone trying to stop a moving train is risking their own safety. My advice is simple: don’t stand in the way of progress.”
The Oyo State governor, who previously served as the Secretary of the last PDP National Convention, said his decision to accept a lower role in the upcoming event demonstrates his dedication to rebuilding the party.
“No assignment is too small or too big when it comes to building our party,” he said. “If it means sweeping the floor in Ibadan for the success of PDP and Nigerian democracy, I will gladly do it.”
Makinde explained that his committee’s work will begin with coordinating the transportation and logistics of delegates from their various states to Ibadan and ensuring their safe return after the convention.
“We will manage the movement of all delegates from the moment they leave their states until they return home after a successful national convention,” he assured.
Makinde on 2027 Presidential Ambition
Addressing questions about his rumored 2027 presidential ambition, Makinde maintained that building a united and credible PDP is his top priority.
“I’ve said it many times — I’m old enough to set my own agenda,” he said. “Before anyone talks about ambition, we must first have a strong party. You can’t have ambition without a viable platform.”
“Our immediate focus is to make sure Oyo State delivers the best national convention in PDP’s history. That’s where our energy is,” he added.
On Defections and Party Discipline
Reacting to recent defections from the PDP, Makinde noted that party membership is voluntary and must be guided by respect for the constitution and internal processes.
“Being part of a political party means submitting to its constitution,” he explained. “Managing a party or a government is not as simple as people think — it’s a complex and delicate process.”
He acknowledged that while no political organisation should tolerate indiscipline, the PDP will continue to uphold due process when dealing with internal issues.
“Even when members have disputes or face disciplinary actions, our constitution provides a process,” Makinde said. “We don’t just wake up and suspend or expel people. Democracy is about procedure — not command and control like in the military.”
Makinde added that the PDP is working to strengthen its internal structures to ensure fairness and accountability among members.
“We’re evolving a robust system where every member will get what they deserve — whether reward or sanction — based on their contributions to the party,” he stated.
Criticism of the APC
The Oyo governor also took a swipe at the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying Nigerians are already aware of the government’s shortcomings.
“Nigerians are not blind,” he said. “They know what the APC has or hasn’t done. We don’t need to waste energy criticizing them — the people already understand the situation.”
Makinde expressed optimism that after the PDP’s convention, the party will re-emerge stronger, more united, and ready to provide credible leadership for Nigeria.
“Post-convention, Nigerians will see a revitalized PDP — one that will clearly outline what it will deliver to the people, in black and white, so citizens can hold us accountable,” he assured.
